MONTH XX, 2012 WELCOME TO THE CITIZENSHIP INFORMATION WORKSHOP

Transcription

1 MONTH XX, 2012 WELCOME TO THE CITIZENSHIP INFORMATION WORKSHOP

2 THANK YOU to all of our partner organizations [COMPANY LOGO] New American Workforce is a project of the National Immigration Forum

3 Overview Today s session is completely confidential (and voluntary). What is naturalization? Why choose citizenship? The naturalization process How can we help you?

4 What is naturalization? Naturalization is the process by which an eligible Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) becomes a U.S. Citizen.

5 Why Choose Citizenship? I have been in this country for 15 years and I just could not find the time and money to apply earlier. When I heard about this great service at my job, I registered right away and here I am today, a happy, proud and blessed American citizen. Raquel

6 Reasons to Choose Citizenship Make your voice heard: You can vote, run for elected office, and serve as a juror. Travel with ease: Obtain a U.S. passport. Receive U.S. government assistance and protection when abroad. Take care of your family: You can reunite your family faster. U.S. citizens can apply for more family members and often those family members can immigrate much more quickly.

7 Reasons to Choose Citizenship Ensure your kids future: Children under 18 who were born abroad should automatically become citizens. Stop worrying about what-ifs: A U.S. citizen cannot be deported. Access to help if you ever need it: You may qualify for public benefits programs such as Medicaid, food stamps, and public housing.

8 Reasons to Choose Citizenship Expand your opportunities: Live in another country for as long as you want without losing your U.S. citizenship. Get a great job: Qualify for federal and state government jobs such as police officer, fire fighter, immigration officer, postal service employee, etc. Forget about paperwork and fees: U.S. citizenship does not expire unlike permanent residents who must renew their green card every 10 years. Not required to report a change of address each time you move.

9 Citizenship: Questions to Ask Can I have dual citizenship? Can I own property overseas? What s on the test? How much English do I need to know? Do I have to leave the country while I wait for my citizenship to process? WE CAN HELP!

10 The Naturalization Process Application and Fee Fingerprints/Biometrics Appointment Interview/Test Oath and Ceremony

11 Eligibility Requirements 1. Be a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) for 5 years (or 3 if married to a U.S. citizen) 2. Be at least 18 years old 3. Speak, read, write, and understand some English 4. Pass a short U.S. history and government test 5. Residency requirements a. Physical presence b. Continuous residence c. Live in Michigan for the past three months 6. Have good moral character during statutory period 7. Be willing to take Oath of Allegiance 8. Pay fee (or qualify for fee waiver)

12 What about the fee? Applicants must pay $725.00* for USCIS to process their N-400, Application for Naturalization. $640 application fee + $85 biometric service fee Fee can be paid by check, money order, or credit/debit card *Partial and full fee waivers Partial fee waiver of $ is available for persons whose household income is between 150% and 200% of the federal poverty guidelines Full fee waiver available for persons whose household income is less than 150% of the federal poverty guidelines OR an eligible family member is receiving means-tested public assistance like Medicaid or food stamps

13 How Can We Help? We provide the following assistance: Citizenship application assistance Continued representation by an attorney or DOJ-accredited representative for the duration of your case, depending on complexity Optional interview preparation assistance Preparation for English Interview Preparation for civics exam

14 How Can I Start the Process? Sign up today for an appointment for more info or to start your citizenship application! Please check that your contact information (including phone number) is accurate on the sign-in sheet. For additional questions, contact the International Center.

15 SIGN UP TODAY TO APPLY FOR CITIZENSHIP AT YOUR WORKSITE! See You Next Time!